As women, we tend to put everyone else first, often identifying ourselves and who we are in terms of our relationships. Nothing wrong with loving connection with others–relationships are great! So if you are dating or married and preparing to spend Valentine’s Day out and about, go and enjoy it! But we are going to talk about self-love this Valentine’s Day.

Leslie J Saul - Self-Love

Let’s turn conversation hearts (you know those addicting heart candies, the ones you have your favorite color of and leave the rest for someone else?) into a Valentine’s Day self-love conversation.

I Love You –

Of course, you do, but do you love yourself? Let’s clear something up–loving yourself isn’t selfish! If you don’t love yourself, you can’t be the best version of yourself for anyone else. As women, we are givers and doers by nature, wired to prioritize the needs and wants of those around us. We must learn that by loving ourselves and taking care of our own bodies, minds, and hearts first, we become better wives, mothers, friends, employees, bosses, etc.

Kiss Me –

Let’s talk about that mouth!  What does it say?  Do you talk to yourself the same way you’d talk to your best friend, or are you more likely to speak nasty things you might say about your worst enemy? You are not dumb, stupid, ugly, or fat. You are beautiful, unique, interesting, and smart! Make sure you are telling yourself what you need to hear in order to believe in and be your best self. Be conscious of you inner dialogue and challenge your negative self-talk. What you say to yourself, you believe! Take a look in the mirror, pucker up, and blow yourself some kisses.

My Hero –

Sometimes you need to be your own damn hero.  Figure out how to do something you don’t know how to do, pick something to fix, or make yourself. Learn a new skill, especially if it is something you currently depend on someone else to do. Learning to do new things is growth; growing and becoming the best possible version of ourselves is just another way to show love to YOU.

Say Yes –

Say yes to self-love. What have you done for yourself that you really love to do? Have you checked out a new Netflix show recently? Read a good book? Relaxed by the pool? Taken a vacation? Gotten your hair or nails done? All these things are amazing ways to take care of ourselves. We all need time to relax and recharge so we do not get burned out. I encourage you to say yes to something you have been putting off this month, something luxurious and only for you.

Yours Truly –

Do you journal? We should all take a moment each day, put pen to paper, and write down what you are grateful for. Even better? What are you grateful for about yourself? Studies show that those who consciously practice gratitude live happier lives.

You are My Sunshine –

Take yourself outside! Although you may not be seeing the sun as much as you’d like this time of year, dependent on where you live, going outside is a chance to refresh and recharge your batteries. Take a quick walk, play outside with your kids, or take your fur babies for a stroll through the neighborhood or a nearby park.

Love Bug –

Before you can get the “love bug” and have a flourishing relationship with your partner, you must first love yourself. It all starts with you.

How are you spending your Valentine’s Day?  Do you find self love easy or do you put everyone else first?